"I'd like to thank Coach Kelly and the strength coaches for continuing to allow me to continue to play the game I love, BUT I've decided to leave UCLA and pursue other opportunities," Modster said.

Modster was beaten out for the starting job by Michigan graduate transfer Wilton Speight and freshman Dorian Thompson-Robinson in training camp. Speight was injured in the Bruins' season opener against Cincinnati and was replaced by Thompson-Robinson.

Thompson-Robinson started last week's game against Fresno State, and Modster played just one play in the 38-14 loss to the Bulldogs.

Speight might be available to return when UCLA (0-3) plays at Colorado (3-0) on Sept. 28 in its Pac-12 Conference opener.

Last season, Modster completed 64.6 percent of his passes for 671 yards and four touchdowns and no interceptions as the backup to Josh Rosen, a 2018 NFL first-round draft pick. The 6-foot-1, 215-pound Modster directed UCLA on a game-winning drive last year against California that locked up a bowl berth.

Then in a Cactus Bowl loss to Kansas State, Modster threw for 295 yards and two touchdowns.

"First and foremost I would like to thank my teammates for always grinding with me day in and day out, creating memories that I will cherish for a lifetime. I would like to thank Coach (Jim) Mora for giving me the opportunity to play and attend such a prestigious school! Also I'd like to thank Bruin Fans who continued to support my teammates an I throughout these years."

Modster must sit out next year as a transfer if he chooses an FBS school before becoming eligible to play again in 2020.